First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

CHUCK, WA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:24:26 GMT

What’s next?

It is going to be a while before we see results of the various economic packages, and besides, they center on the age of problems of money. The President said during the campaign he would increase the number of troops in Afghanistan, so that is no surprise. Is the blossoming issue of trying Bush, Cheney and many other officials for war crimes going to be a big issue?

What ought to be next is something we can sink our teeth into. Let’s face it the long election season was fantastic. The whole country became energized. Since the President is speaking next week to the nation, maybe he can start us down a new path. I say we need a national goal, or project, or timeline, or whatever you call it, but we need that national energy back.

Nobody is more capable to lead us in this endeavor and get us out of the doldrums than Barack Obama.

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Barney — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:28:50 GMT

I applaud those GOP governors for taking a principled stand. The problem, though, is that residents of those states will still be on the hook for paying for it so it's a no-win situation.

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Dan, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:29:01 GMT

Sebelius's going to DC would be a really huge blow to Senate Democrats. Not that she is sure to run if she is not tapped to the Cabinet, but she would certainly have been a VERY VERY strong candidate for Democrats. A recent poll had her leading her potential Republican opponents by double-digits: http://campaigndiaries.com/2009/02/06/poll-sebelius/

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Nashville_fan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:29:16 GMT

So I’ve been thinking about the argument we’ve been having here for two years about who should address some of our financial problems – the government or the private sector.

There are some solid points to be made for both approaches, and clearly much of the prosperity we have experienced in this country has come from the private sector, which is often more nimble and less bogged down with “procedure” to respond to unforeseen changes in the marketplace.

However, here is what I have realized:

The private sector COULD have acted to address many of the problems we see today, especially the mortgage foreclosure situation. Once it became clear what the scope of the problem was, and that the banks could not be profitable with so many people not paying their loans, why didn’t the leaders of the top banks get together, structure a private sector plan, and present a united front? The same could be said for Wall Street and the auto industry.

The simple fact is the reason that the government HAD TO address this crisis is because the private sector DIDN’T. America placed its future and its trust in the private sector, and the simple fact is, that trust was repaid with deceipt and denial.

Whether you like President Obama’s approaches to our financial problems or not, you have to give him credit for LEADING the charge, HAVING a plan, and being ACCOUNTABLE for the results. Who in the private sector has stepped up to the challenge? Who else in the government is willing to take a clear stand and do what’s best for the country and not just their congressional district?

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Lee C., CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:30:35 GMT

Essentally Obama released a mortgage bailout plan, that isn't really a plan at all. That's why the Republicans can't be critical of the plan, because it's not a plan. It's more about salesmenship then it is about any substance. Obama doesn't say who won't be saved by the plan, because most people won't be saved by it. So where is the money going? Good question.

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STEVEN , New York — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:31:33 GMT

Chuck Todd, what happened to you ?

You used to be a reasonable, well spoken analyst, its why i still read FR. ...

But these days you have sunk to the level of cheap reporting (gotcha questions), always looking for some cheap drama ... ive watched you during the WH briefings and it saddens me.

WhaT HAPPENED TO YOU ?

It just boggles my mind that the republicans in congress simply refuse to see the reality of what is happening in the country.

People are tired of their old arguments ... the election results proved this !

GET A CLUE !!

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Walt G., Topeka KS — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:33:11 GMT

You have to love Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius plan for her states income tax returns this year. She's running the same plan as California, sending IOUs to Kansas taxpayers for their state income tax returns.

We prefer cash Kathy.

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Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:34:17 GMT

Will coleman's last move be to heed his own advice to Franken the day after the election where he will finally step aside so that the healing process to begin? Nah he doesn't have that kind of class, party first country last.

I was rather amazed at how brazen and dishoinest McNasty has become when he said Sunday that he thought the stimulus bill was generational theft. McNasty has made a career out of voting for generational theft supporting all those big budget deficits so he and his wife could avoid paying their fair share of taxes. He also supported stealing from Social Security so the rich and greedy could have tax cut welfare they didn't need or deserve.

Investigate the bushwhacker's criminals!

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Dookie — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:34:18 GMT

I can understand helping people out who lost their jobs. But, why is the federal government helping people out who had no business taking the loans that they did? Isn't this encouraging the wrong behavior? Would I have been better served by not paying my mortgage for the last few months? Eric Cantor asks a great question...what about the 90 some percent that have played by the rules. Why are WE subsidizing the people that got into bad mortgages?

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katiec — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:34:30 GMT

The stimulous package is not perfect but it will be there to help every state. With the American people hurting so, any governor that refuses this aid is committing suicide. People, country first! When will
this ever sink in to these hypocrits??

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Ed Crane, Middlebury, IN — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:35:46 GMT

Obama's War....19 Feb 2009

The top U.S. commander in Afghanistan offered a grim view Wednesday of military efforts in southern Afghanistan, warning that 17,000 new troops will take on emboldened Taliban insurgents who have "stalemated" U.S. and allied forces.

Army Gen. David McKiernan also predicted that the bolstered numbers of U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan — about 55,000 in all — will remain near those levels for up to five years.

OBAMA’S WAR DEEPENS....unfortunately many will die under his leadership in Afghanistan as Commander in Chief.

The estimated level of 55,000 troops needs "to be sustained for some period of time," he said, adding that could be as long as three to five years.

Some of the 17,000 U.S. troops soon headed overseas will be training Afghanistan police while battling insurgents as the nation's August elections approach.

Yes, this is Obama’s war, he identified Afghanistan as the real target in the campaign and he is sending troops there to fight it.

Who can know for sure that we have not been lied to by Obama.....How can we know he is telling the truth……what makes this the right war....

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Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:37:16 GMT

NAFTA and renegotiation thereof?

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Ron Indiana — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:37:27 GMT

It's not too surprising that some GOP governors are turning down Jobs Bill money. When you look at it closer, they tend to be Southern states that are strong GOP. To let conservative ideology get in the way of taking care of people is dumb, dumb, dumb. It is also facinating to watch House Representatives who voted against the bill to get in line for the money, or to say that they supported the bill. What a bunch of hypocrites!!
The question will be will the hypocrites also vote against the housing bill, the medical bill, other stimulus initiatives? If republicans think about it, they will keep their base (of conservatives) solid, but lose moderate republicans who are hurting economically. All President Obama has to do is continue working for the people. He received outstanding support in Phoenix.

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Amy B Portland, ME — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:37:33 GMT

“A half-dozen Republican governors are considering turning down some money from the federal stimulus package"

Yes! Yes! Yes! Let them put their money where their mouth is. And while we're at it, lets make a deal not to send anymore disaster relief money to Louisiana and Mississipi or federal money for bridges or roads to Alaska. It's time for the hypocrisy to end. These rightwingers call Democrats "socialists" while taking more money from the feds than the blue states. Enough.

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gepa — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:37:50 GMT

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Chris Steeple, Cary NC — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:37:52 GMT

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:39:49 GMT

Beware of "Gonzo-Gate".

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Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:40:24 GMT

While there may be some republic party governors talking about not taking some of the stimulus package's money don't even be surprised when they wimp out and then take it. This is just petty partisan political lies meant to make them look tough but they'll fold in the end like the political cowards they've always been.

It's amazing at how many lies the repugnant ones can spread about the stimulus bill. Just a bunch of spoiled brats whining that they can't dictate the rules anymore. The Dopes of Nope have nothing constructive to put forward so they create a pack of lies their braindead robots believe because they don't bother to fact check the lies.

I was watching a show on the Roman Empire, an episode about Julius Ceasar, and over 2,000 years there has been no change in the classic clash between Liberals and conservatives. Conservatives are just cheapskates who don't want the rich and greedy paying their fair share of taxes.

Tax the Rich and Give to the Poor!

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Nashville_fan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:41:41 GMT

" The Obama administration was very careful about what it didn’t say -- namely, that not every homeowner and bank is going to be saved."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Not true. The Obama Administration has said REPEATEDLY that not every homeowner and bank will be saved. You all must have been in the bathroom on those parts . . . this "selective hearing" is getting out of control, no?

_______________________________

"So isn't it more correct that without $275 billion in total money, this housing plan couldn't be implemented? Discuss."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
You say to-may-to, I say to-mah-to.

A better question might be how much will it cost us to do nothing? How much has doing nothing up to this point already cost us? How many ghost neighborhoods have we created already?
__________________________________________

" And as it turns out, Goolsbee was speaking the truth."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
I must say, it's a little disappointing for you to trot out this "he said, she said" incident, do a misleading bullet point synapsis, and then end with the statement above.

Austin Goolsbee disputed the way his statements were "spun" in the media, and there was quite a firestorm in Canada leading to some resignations as well, although First Read is still holding on to their original "spin" even now.

I guess there is no need to let the "facts" interfere with your "narrative", eh? Sad.

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Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:41:58 GMT

$75 Billion/$275 Billion?
Well, the $200 billion COULD be there if needed. But where, exactly, do they put such things anyway? Just on a spreadsheet? To extend the FDIC analogy, do we have all the cash set aside somewhere for $100,000 protection per account for every bank in the country that could go belly-up? In my meager finances, there's no cost if it isn't spent and out the door. If it's on hold, it's still there. (Or is it just the Wall Street mystical investor CONFIDENCE thing?)
So, I vote $75 billion, for now...

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Eric Salinas, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:42:32 GMT

All of these democraps mentioned in this article are a joke! The republicans do such a better job of governing our country. I'm so laughing at Obummer for not being able to fill the HHS or commerce cabinet positions. He might as well give both spots to republicans since they would do a way better job than any democrap!

Seat Sen. Coleman NOW!

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Eric, Salinas, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:44:42 GMT

It's going to be so good seeing Obama travel overseas, well just a short hop to Canada. It's going to be so strange to see people in other countries cheer our president and wave American flags proudly instead of burning an effigy of the bushwhacker and our flags.

Isn't it funny that after whining about several of Obama's Cabinet choices having back tax problems we now find out that Blamey Whinehouse Palin has her own back tax problems because she didn't pay taxes on her per diem like she should have. Better belive we Democrats will be remembering this tax deadbeat in 2012.

Impeach Palin!

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Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:44:46 GMT

"Seriously, when the GOP starts trotting out ACORN talking points, you know they don’t have much to complain about."

Huzzah! Calling out lame GOP talking points? Well-played, First Read. Credit, where credit is due!

Can we please "mike-up" Michele Bachmann and Eric Cantor the way professional sports coaches/managers do? Their daily doses of idiocy will only further drive their hapless party into the wilderness.
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"This could become the ultimate litmus test for Republicans. But what will happen if residents decide they need the assistance and don't want to lose out on the money?"

Just ask Joseph Cao about this one. There is already a recall effort being put together against him, as a result of his "No" vote- after he had pledged to his constituents that he would vote for the stimulus.

By the way, did you catch Charlie Crist's approval numbers after appearing with President Obama in Florida? He's over 60% approval both generally AND with self-identifying Repubs in FL.

Take-home message for the GOP: Sitting on your (well-manicured) hands and hoping for the economy to fail isn't going to play well. You will NOT be able to spin your indifference to the suffering of so many Americans.

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Carrie, Iowa — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:45:04 GMT

The question is how the administration can prove what's happening (when it happens later this spring and summer) is not as bad as if nothing was done. Will the markets react that way as well?

----------------------

Went to the recovery.org website. Is this site a joke? What exactly is $81 billion dollars for "Protecting the Vulnerable"? Gee, I feel vulnerable, so when do I get my check? The site also makes it look like tax cuts are the biggest portion of the bill. They are not, tax cuts are less then a third of the bill. And Infrastructure and Science are lumped together at $111 billion. Less then 12% of the bill is spent on Infrastructure? That's all Obama talked about when he was pushing this bill, and it's less then 12%?

I think doing "nothing at all" would have solved the problems this country is having a lot quicker then spending a ton of money on "Protecting the Vulnerable".

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Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:45:27 GMT

What nimrod would vote for a governor (are they all running for re-election?) or worse, a President, that did NOTHING to help them in a dire time of need when there was REAL money coming from WASHINGTON???
Other than Alaska and its (formerly) pork pipeline,
you know, MS, SC, and LA aren't doing so hot in the financial area to begin with-ever. Maybe no one has a mortgage to be foreclosed??? TAKE THE MONEY AND HELP PEOPLE! (Or shut up forever about KATRINA, in the one case.)
Cluelesser and cluelesser.

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Media Skeptic — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:46:31 GMT

And as it turns out, Goolsbee was speaking the truth. It was the classic instance of a Kinsley-defined Washington gaffe -- accidental truth telling.
---------------------------------------------------

You're getting really sloppy. Goolsbee denied that he had said anything like what was claimed by the representative of the _conservative Canadian government. The meeting was brief, informal, and initiated by the Canadians, not Goolsbee. If you're going to have "flashbacks" you should at least make them conform to the facts so they don't look so much like Republican acid trips.

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J. Ellis, Virginia — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:46:48 GMT

Everyone seems to be asking what is in the Stim Pkg for me? Why should I get no consideration for paying my mortgage on time, even if I have to work two jobs to do it? These questions are understandable but don't make much sense.

If the government were giving away vouchers for corrective surgery that would save a life, but I don't need the surgery, why should I say, "me, too, me, too! What about me?" The President explained yesterday the mortgage aid is for those that need help keeping their mortgage from going underwater. He also explained who would not benefit from such aid. There will be no reward for bad behavior or bad judgements.

I would like to see each taxpayer receive at least $10K to help stimulate the economy, but that ain't gonna happen either.

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Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:48:06 GMT

Bill Maher had it right:
These GOP obstructionists are the great fiscally responsible ones-Ha! Worst deficits were left by two Republican Presidents: Reagan and Bush 43.
Who had a surplus leaving office? A DEMOCRAT-CLINTON.

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laughaday — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:49:04 GMT

THe most laughable gov on that list is Jindal............from Katrina stricken Louisiana. I was in New Orleans recently---not on vacation mind you, but on a mission trip to help repair homes and neighborhoods still up to their treetops in rubble. Cup full of levy anyone??

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Cindy, Macon, GA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:49:55 GMT

Bush got his butt kicked for-

Cost for Bush War on Terror - 700 billion over 8 years

Cost for Bush relief for Katrina - 1.4 billion

Cost for Bush fight against Aids - 30 billion over 6 years

Cost for Obama stimulus bill - 827 billion in 1 month.

Obama is obviously the big winner for most tax dollars spent in the shortest amount of time as president. Show me the money.

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--- ERIC HOLDER SAYS: "BAD, BAD, BAD AMERICA" --- ! — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:50:16 GMT

WHEN WILL ERIC HOLDER BE JOINING ROLAND BURRIS IN THE OUTHOUSE?
HOLDER IS ANOTHER OBAMA "MISTAKE" --- A REINCARNATION OF ANDREW YOUNG.
HOLDER THINKS ITS HIS JOB TO PREACH TO US ABOUT HOW BAD AMERICA IS!

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Dottie, Swarthmore PA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:51:55 GMT

It's no surprise that Eric Cantor and John Boehner began to criticize the mortgage relief bill the President introduced yesterday. The current Republican Party is really the party of NO. President Obama will not hear any praise for his proposals from Republicans not matter how good his ideas are. They just don't get it. They think that if they oppose everything they will win support from their base and get reelected in 2010. I believe this is the wrong approach and Republicans will lose seats in 2010.

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Edmund Fitzgerald — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:54:54 GMT

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Josh Larson, FL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:56:53 GMT

Speaking of ACORN, didn't Repub Congresswoman Michele Bachmann say Pres. Obama gave several Billion Dollars to ACORN in his Stimulus Package? Keith Olberman last night said this woman has a history of saying many untruths, and it is catching up to her 'Big Time'.

gepa

Okay, Keith O. is the new voice of truth. Please don't hate on Limbaugh listeners those of you who tune in to Keith and Rachel.

People belive what they want to believe, doesn't make either right.

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MSierra, SF — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:57:26 GMT

'...A half-dozen Republican governors are considering turning down some money from the federal stimulus package...'

Pass that money this way, bro's

California can use that money

Southern, Red states have been feeding at the federal trough for too long
California gets less benefits than it pays for in taxes

Texas, South Carolina, Georgia all get more than they pay

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In Debt — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:03 GMT

Take-home message for the GOP: Sitting on your (well-manicured) hands and hoping for the economy to fail isn't going to play well. You will NOT be able to spin your indifference to the suffering of so many Americans.

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

My families cars are old and broken down, we live in an old house that we can hardly afford, we can't afford vacations, and our jobs are in jeopardy every day.

To help our situation my wife went to the mall last night and racked up $20,000 worth of bills in credit card debt. We're not sure it will help, but at least she's trying to do something.

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JINDONG — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:11 GMT

Hold your appaluse for Jindal & the rest of the rethugs that would turn down funding - it's no more than being part of the "let's say NO to anything the President suggests" club - they don't care about their consituents and believe me, they'll be remembered for the selfish idiots they are. The rethugs were screaming for a housing plan and so Pres. Obama gives it to them and they're still screaming. They're nothing more than a bunch of childish morons but they're playing games when there's nothing childish about this country's financial crisis. Shame on the rethugs as they live up to their motto: Repbulicans: Pride in Ignorance

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Sandy Moore, Indy — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:00:39 GMT

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Repugsuck — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:01:24 GMT

Could we hate the repuglicans more? I don't think so.

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The - Democrat Soldier — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:02:39 GMT

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Justin Ceasar (distant cousin) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:03:49 GMT

I was watching a show on the Roman Empire, an episode about Julius Ceasar, and over 2,000 years there has been no change in the classic clash between Liberals and conservatives. Conservatives are just cheapskates who don't want the rich and greedy paying their fair share of taxes.

Tax the Rich and Give to the Poor!
Eric, Salinas, CA

I just love the 35mm film they used back then. And who knew Julius was that tall? I always thought he was a smallish weasely little guy, kind of like Rahm Emanual.

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Fran Neely, Chicago IL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:06:08 GMT

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Clara Kansas City, MO — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:06:47 GMT

Dan, NY excellent assessment - Sebelius is the only Democrat I've seen who could win a Senate seat in Kansas. People LIKE her.

And Walt G., Topeka, KS - this 'crisis' was recently averted as the budget was reconciled yesterday - see article here:

http://www.kansas.com/news/story/703417.html
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Interesting that you challenge us to remember the snafu and then fully report it? Unless I am missing something that was the scandal - that 'someone' on Obama's team spoke with Canadian's about NAFTA and to pay no attention to campaign rhetoric.

I finally figured out that this forum is for us, the reading audience. Not a news source. I was confused for awhile; but now I get it. Discuss. (and thanks, Chuck, Mark and Domenico)

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Seattle Sue — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:08:07 GMT

I hope all the politicians (governors/senators/members of congress) that voted against the stimulus package will refuse the money. I saw Pawlenty say he was not for the plan but he wanted his citizens to get their share. I thought I saw Stanford say the same, but maybe he just used some weasel words

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Claire — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:14:51 GMT

What nimrod would vote for a governor (are they all running for re-election?) or worse, a President, that did NOTHING to help them in a dire time of need when there was REAL money coming from WASHINGTON???
------------------------------------------------
I would, in a minute. And let's clear up some confusion: REAL money coming from Washington is OUR money.

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newdayDawning — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:16:11 GMT

Except, Josh in Florida, you can find out that ACORN is NOT getting 5 million by reading the package itself. You do know that right..that it is easily verifiable? Bachmann is a joke and I think the people in her district are going to get tired of Palin-lite making them look like fools.

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God Help Us - Obama Won't! — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:16:45 GMT

Carrie from IA wrote: "Went to the recovery.org website. Is this site a joke? What exactly is $81 billion dollars for "Protecting the Vulnerable"? Gee, I feel vulnerable, so when do I get my check? The site also makes it look like tax cuts are the biggest portion of the bill. They are not, tax cuts are less then a third of the bill. And Infrastructure and Science are lumped together at $111 billion. Less then 12% of the bill is spent on Infrastructure? That's all Obama talked about when he was pushing this bill, and it's less then 12%?"
=================================================
Carrie, Obama has said that he wants to "manage the knowledge" of the American people. That sounds like a code phrase for "pull the wool over their eyes." There are lots of things that he's purposely hiding from us. Trying to lump things together, thinking we won't figure it out.

Yes, the website is a joke. So is the whole crooked Obama administration.

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John B, Des Moines, IA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:17:23 GMT

"Nashville_fan (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 9:29 AM)" Nashville_fan the post referenced is one of the smartest things I've seen posted here of late. The private sector COULD HAVE behaved in a way that prevented this, but each of those companies saw it to be in their own best interest to act in a way that turned out to be against the best interests of the nation. As I see it that's the fundamental weakness of the free market and it determines where there should be regulations. Unregulated capitalism gives us the world of Dickensian England and Malaysian sweat shops. Properly regulated capitalism gives a strong economy and strong nation.

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Pete, Salinas, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:17:28 GMT

Chuck - you guys are losing the promoting of the Republican agenda's war - I think you'd better get off their ship and start looking out for yourself.

The Republican's battle fleet is sinking - and fast.

You are a great man; I can see it in your eyes, don't let them bring you down.

We need people like you - you are opened minded and very politically savvy -

Don't get it twisted!!! Speak the truth and save yourself.

Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA

The - Democrat Soldier

Promoting Censorship- Not very democratic.

The democratic/liberal philosophy used to be,"We may not agree with what a person says, but we will die for the right for them to say it"

Funny how things change over time and some who fought for freedom now promote limiting or removing it. Should be The Hypocritic Soldier.

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Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:17:36 GMT

To In Debt:

Yes, I know, I've heard all the arguments that we shouldn't spend money we don't have. Here's the part of your statement I found most interesting:

"To help our situation my wife went to the mall last night and racked up $20,000 worth of bills in credit card debt."

If that much credit were available, we might not have as severe of a problem. The main problem is stagnant credit flow. Things have to keep moving. Both the national, and global economies, depend on it.

No one that is paying attention is saying that this is an easy fix. It won't be. There will be severe inflation, and any positive outcomes will be slow to reveal themselves. But the consequences of doing nothing may be far more dire around the globe.

And yes, the state of the global economy does affect us all. There is no sitting back and saying- "Let it all go- what's the worst that could happen?"

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Nashville_fan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:18:22 GMT

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

GW, Vancouver, Canada — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:21:22 GMT

The quagmire is Coleman's quagmire. Franken was a good comedian , but Coleman is a bad clown.

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Strong Woman — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:23:17 GMT

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sbv, creswell, oregon — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:24:38 GMT

"The Obama administration was very careful about what it didn’t say -- namely, that not every homeowner and bank is going to be saved." geez, if the obama admin. was careful about not saying this, then how did i hear it?

must be the same way the good ol' obstructionist delusionists known as the gop, knew about acorn NOT, health care restrictions NOT, high speed rail from disneyland to las vegas NOT, washington mall restoration and family planning without having the opportunity and time to read this heavy, multi-page, partisan arra.

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Terry, Kansas City — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:28:25 GMT

It is unfortunate the Republicans are so quick to criticize every program and proposal put forth by the President. Yet, I've seen no viable alternatives proposed by any of them; and I don't count the 'reduce taxes' proposal as that has been shown to be a non-starter in generating growth.

It is laughable that any governor would even consider the idea of not taking federal money at this time. Pandering to the Republican faithful isn't going to play well when their unemployment rolls are swelling and foreclosure rates are rising in the states the declined help.

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Racism kept alive by Obama — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:29:41 GMT

White By Choice (Sent Wednesday, February 18, 2009 1:34 PM)

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What kind of a "name" is that anyway? WTF. Please explain!
Ted, Mid Michigan (Sent Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:42 PM)

====================================================
Ted, if Obama can be black by choice then what is wrong with White by Choice? Obama is half white and half black, yet he chooses to capitalize on only being black. WTF?

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C.Myles/Oak Hall, VA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:29:59 GMT

The GOP has become the most hypocritical group of politicians in history. They are chasing Independent voters to the democrats by the thousands. Scream against the bill...and then ask for the money. Say you won't accept it...and then change your minds.The GOP has no ideas, no leaders, & some aree stupid enough to care what Limbaugh thinks...and he is a far right extremist that has NO good ideas.

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matt — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:31:57 GMT

If Obama's housing plan won;t stop foreclosures and won't do much for the housing crisis, why spend the $275 billion?

http://www.political-buzz.com/

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Moon Dawg — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:32:10 GMT

This much is fact:

"What goes up must come down."

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Andrea, New York City — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:34:33 GMT

Whether you like President Obama’s approaches to our financial problems or not, you have to give him credit for LEADING the charge, HAVING a plan, and being ACCOUNTABLE for the results. Who in the private sector has stepped up to the challenge? Who else in the government is willing to take a clear stand and do what’s best for the country and not just their congressional district?

Nashville fan

*************************************************************

Thank you for your clear and practical analysis on this subject. I agree with you and hope our opponents would read your comments.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

John — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:36:37 GMT

Keep in mind that despite all the Red State rhetoric about fiscal responsibility, small government, and the bluster about possibly refusing federal help, these Republican governors and their states generally receive far more federal dollars per capita than big, blue states with large urban populations.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Jackson, Seattle — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:39:13 GMT

Eric, Salinas, CA - It's going to be so good seeing Obama travel overseas, well just a short hop to Canada.

Overseas? What sea is Obama going over? The Gulf of Erie? The Sea of Huron? Or the big one, the Superior Ocean?
Edmund Fitzgerald (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 9:54 AM)
___________

Perhaps he was referring to the big sea of blue states that lie between the SWCP and Canada.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Paul — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:39:16 GMT

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Dave F., - Chicago IL — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:39:32 GMT

"So isn't it more correct that without $275 billion in total money, this housing plan couldn't be implemented? Discuss."

If I put up my house as collateral to buy, say, a nice new car, clearly I couldn't buy the car without owning the house. But I don't have to use any of that equity to purchase the car either - it's simply there in case things go bad.

So to me, it sure doesn't sound like spending 200 billion of taxpayer money. It just sounds like a guarantee. And with confidence in the markets and economy being at such low levels, don't we NEED that kind of backstop to regain confidence?

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Mike Groshong, Mcinnville, Or — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:41:11 GMT

It is sad to watch the GOP self destruct in front of our eyes. Leaderless they wander in the desert of political wasteland howling at the moon beyond their reach.

Two points: governors who actively consider depriving their citizens of any aide possible under the stimulus plan for ideological reasons and Mr Coleman in Minnesota whose dog in the manger behavior places him on the same level as the former governor of Illinois but not at funny.

Both cases point to a political party that fails to focus on the real domestic and foreign issues that face this nation in favor of narrow partisan politics. Would you want your aged mother governed by the likes of them. Personally, I would not trust them to care for the welfare of my cat!

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Chattanooga Fan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:43:21 GMT

Nashville Fan,

If you're going to provide 'proof' to back up your comments, I'd recommend providing a more current article than one from 2004.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

edward l. williams — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:44:40 GMT

Mississippi is one of the poorest states in the nation. This governor do not have the best interest of it's citizens in mind. He rather play politics. The rich Mississippians will support him while the other citizens will continue to suffer even more. It's not just poor blacks, there are more poor white in the state. How they can support this man, unbelievable.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Mary — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:46:04 GMT

Poor homeowners facing foreclosure are criticized for making bad loans, over extending themselves and basically believing what banks were telling/offering them so that they could own a home. Why are not the rich and powerful and other supposedly financially savvy folks criticized equally for believing and buying into the hype of Sanford and Madoff.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Dennis, Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:46:25 GMT

Point of Order

States that elect to not take the stimulus bill money should not be required to contribute taxpayer dollars from their state to help the other states. They should be able to keep that money in their state for their people. Money given out should be paid for by the states who take the money, putting the tax burden on their states, not all states.
Sandy Moore, Indy (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 10:00 AM)
=============================================
That works great for me BECAUSE for every dollar these states send to the federal government they get back:
MS $2.02
AK $1.84
LA $1.78
SC $1.35
TX $0.94
So in total there would be more $$$ for all the other states and these states would have to raise taxes !!!

It should also be noted that all of these states are in the red and in total 46 of the 50 states are in the red.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Nashville_fan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:51:52 GMT

Nashville fan,

The only reason the government stepped in instead of private sector is that only our federal government can print money or borrow money even though it is 1 trillion in debt. Can you imagine a private company, lets say GM, approaching the capital markets for a loan? They would be laughed right off the planet! The US government can borrow money from itself or other sources even thogh our government is bigtime insolvent. Neat ,huh?

Paul
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Paul,

I disagree. If the private sector had acted on their own to:

-restructure loans on that they knew it would be impossible to pay back

- stop making loans that they knew it would be impossible to pay back

- stop manufacturing cars with HORRIBLE fuel efficiency (every car doesn't have to be green, but do we really need a fleet of Hummers on the road?)

-stop hiding losses with creative accounting

-stop stealing from/overpaying executives with money from the companies they are supposed to be "managing"

then we would not be in the situation that we are in today. The reason that SO MUCH CASH is needed RIGHT NOW is because the private sector has been hiding the truth from us (with a wink and a nod from Congress and the SEC) for YEARS.

Money is not the solution - LEADERSHIP is.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Holder is the Coward — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:54:26 GMT

How many flag waving republicans lost their jobs and benefits today? Once enough white males lose their jobs in the south they may actually wake up and smell the 21st century coffee that is telling them their days are numbered.
Strong Woman (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 10:23 AM)

=============================================
How many Obama-loving democrats lost their jobs and benefits today? Oh, that's right - - most of them don't WANT to work and are just waiting for free handouts that they feel entitled to. Once enough republican white males lose their jobs in the south and can no longer foot the bill for the lazy democrats, they may actually wake up and smell the 21st century coffee that is telling them their days are numbered.

Give me a break. I see Strong Woman is taking the advice of Holder and keeping racial issues alive.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Ed, Coppell — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:54:55 GMT

The Dems are spending money like drunken sailors...and we will all pay when the bill comes due.

$75 Billion to save 9 Million homes...that is like $8K per home...I think someone needs to check their math.

I guess the Change we can beleive in is what will be left of our paychecks after we pay for this Socialist agenda.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Msierra, SF — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:55:18 GMT

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Sam, Charleston WV — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:02:35 GMT

I find it hard to believe that so many posters (no matter the issue) are so anti-people and anti-President Obama (all of 1 month). Now I realize everyone can’t love him, his ideas and leadership like I do, however, they could show a modicum of respect for this awesome individual we have the privilege of having as our President.
Some of the pure ignorance on this board is astonishing also, like the person who asked how President Obama knows how many troops to deploy to Afghanistan. Duh!
He would know how many troops to deploy by the same method as Bush would know. Of course, sending our superior fighting force to demolish a peoples that did not do anything to harm this country, would be an easy guess as to how many? Reading some of this stuff would make you think it’s a crime to want to help fellow citizens and neighbors.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Kate, Saratoga Springs, New York — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:05:44 GMT

First Read needs to go back and look at what President Obama said yesterday regarding Home Foreclosures.

He was very specific about saying that not "everyone would be saved." He said this more then once. Sorry to catch you on this one!

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Sam, Charleston WV — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:06:10 GMT

This is for the poster who said that President Obama is Black by choice. Here's an eye opener for ya - no one is Black by choice here in the good ol US of A.
He is Black by nature and Proud by choice.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Sam, Charleston WV — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:06:39 GMT

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Karen Minneapolis, MN — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:12:52 GMT

Great post Chuck!

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Ted, Mid Michigan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:36:58 GMT

Ed Crane, Middlebury, IN (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 9:35 AM)

------------------------------------------------------

Where were YOU the last 7 years? Bush's war cost more lives, money, and world respect than Afghanistan ever has or WILL. To no point, no strategy, no goals, Not even a definition of a "win".

So I ask again, sir, Where have you been for he last 7 years?

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Morris Love, GA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:43:07 GMT

What page can that be found on?

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

dave NJ — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:46:33 GMT

How can a guy like Jindal even think of refusing any bailout money? It's beyond belief he'd take a stand on 'principle' (read: political positioning) at a time where his state hasn't recovered nearly enough from Katrina yet?
Whether or not the bailout plan works or not will certainly be debatable. But why would anyone deny something that has at least a hope of helping your constitutuents? All for a 'return to fiscal responsibility' mantra?
Has any one of these Republican Governors ever been heard compaining about the cost of the Iraq war in the last eight years? Where was thier fiscal responsibility then? One can't give it the old "sorry about that" and think Americans won't remember thier party's sorry performance of the last eight years with thier hand on the tiller? C'mon, that's not happening anytime soon.
So these guys are making residents suffer for the opportunity to state in 2012 or 2016 that they held the line on fiscal responsibility? I believe people will ask a much more pertinent question of these men: What NEW idea did you bring to the table to help Obama get the country out of the mess your party got us into?
Hint: there will be none.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Sandy Moore, Indy — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:49:45 GMT

To Sandy Mooore, Indy:

Why just stop with the stimulus money? Why not dot the same thing with ALL federal spending? Some states get close to $2 for every $1 in federal money they put in, and some states get only 60 cents.

This "my state's money" view is a slippery slope. Could be "your state" has been on federal welfare for a long time now. Check it out:

http://taxprof.typepad.com/taxprof_blog/2004/09/red_states_feed.html

Nashville_fan

That information appears to be rather old, but why not let states take care of their own and cut the federal government out of the welfare business? You make a real good point.

Responsibility. When more people have to pay more, the freebees will slow down dramatically or stop.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Ed Crane, Middlebury, IN — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:55:37 GMT

Ed Crane, Middlebury: '...Who can know for sure that we have not been lied to by Obama.....How can we know he is telling the truth……what makes this the right war....'

Ed, this is a pre-existing war
It is a war started by George Bush
Obama is trying to correct the mess left by Bush

We know Obama is not lying becaucs he's not saying 'there are WMDs in Afghanistan'
or showing you a fake 'Yellow cake' letter
or 'Outing' CIA agents whose husbands disagree with his policy

I hope you can handle this from here, Ed

Crooked Norm Coleman, Dead man walking

Msierra, SF

I wish if someone is attempting to post an answer, they would be able to do so with something other than the standard rhetoric. I thought Bush's War was Iraq. I thought the whole issue was lying about Iraq. Didn't Obama say the real target is Afghanistan during the campaign and after his election. He is fully responsible for the new focus there and has to be seen as the Commander in Chief now. What proof has he provided/not provided of Afghanistan being the target and what was his source.

(It would also be nice to hear some original thoughts not repeats of what is heard on the airwaves or on the internet)

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Sock it to 'em — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:56:13 GMT

Why are not the rich and powerful and other supposedly financially savvy folks criticized equally for believing and buying into the hype of Sanford and Madoff.
Mary (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 10:46 AM)

=================================================
Mary, it's probably because Pelosi is buddies with Sanford. Did you see the picture of the big bear-hug she was giving him? All smiles and probably helping him to launder his mob money.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

God Help Us - Obama Won't! — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 16:58:31 GMT

"This is for the poster who said that President Obama is Black by choice. Here's an eye opener for ya - no one is Black by choice here in the good ol US of A.
He is Black by nature and Proud by choice.
Sam, Charleston WV (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 11:06 AM)"

OooKaaaay.......so where does his white come in? He tries to cover that up and hide it. Sounds like a coward to me.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

David, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:02:17 GMT

Josh Larson, FL (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 9:56 AM)

>Okay, Keith O. is the new voice of truth. Please >don't hate on Limbaugh listeners those of you who >tune in to Keith and Rachel.

Keith O. is telling the truth. The full text of the Stimulus bill is on recovery.gov and also in the Library of Congress website (thomas.loc.gov). If you read the bill, you can verify that ACORN is not in the bill. That isn't an opinion. It is a fact.

>People belive what they want to believe, doesn't >make either right.
At least you are half right here. People believe what they want to believe. In many cases, there is a right and wrong to those beliefs when there are facts that show one to be correct and the other to be incorrect.

People like Michelle Bachman (and Limbaugh/Hannity?) who make statements about ACORN in the Stimulus Bill are either terribly misinformed or are lying. As Rudy
Giuliani said in his GOP convention speech, "if you don't have the facts, you've got to change them". They're proud liars of the GOP.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Nashville_fan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:10:37 GMT

Nashville Fan,

If you're going to provide 'proof' to back up your comments, I'd recommend providing a more current article than one from 2004. -Chattanooga Fan
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
lol

I wish I could, Chat Fan, but that is the most recent data I could find with a quick Google search.

My paying job doesn't allow me to do the the in depth analysis required, but if I find some more current info, I will bring it too you! :)

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Anita, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:15:04 GMT

*** A GOP litmus test? This is a fascinating story, per the AP: “A half-dozen Republican governors are considering turning down some money from the federal stimulus package, a move opponents say puts conservative ideology ahead of the needs of constituents struggling with foreclosures and unemployment.” Who are these GOP governors? They’re a “who’s who” of possible presidential candidates in 2012 -- Sanford (SC), Jindal (LA), Palin (AK), Perry (TX), and Barbour (MS). What say you, Mitt Romney? This could become the ultimate litmus test for Republicans. But what will happen if residents decide they need the assistance and don't want to lose out on the money? Can governors block this aid? Will state legislatures allow it? Remember, governors have to balance their budgets, so if these Republicans decide not to accept the money, will they get blamed for the future spending cuts or tax hikes that have to follow

Hats off to Rachel Maddow for posing this question on her show. Rachel asked the question of governor Plewnty (?) of Minnesota about the fact that if they opposed the stimulas package, then why would the Senators acccept the funding for their state? He, by the way was one that didn't support the package said that it was because they have budgets and also commented about the amount of money that his state sends to Washington. Also noted that a lot of states are facing budget deficits, (no sh**) and needed the money (no sh**).

So my question was way take the funding? my take, because the need the money, their are a lot of states (such as California) that are in bad shape. So why vote against something that they know that is needed? To simply obstruct, it wasn't their idea.

Each governor that declined the dough:
Sanford (SC), Jindal (LA), Palin (AK), Perry (TX), and Barbour (MS) these nut cases are poised to run in 2012. Jindal-New Orleans need the funds badly, Katrina recovery is still in process. If it wasn't for the various celebs that have donated time and money to the recovery process, those that live there would still be in much dire straits and many still haven't returned for lack of employment. Mississippi is dirt poor, Alaska, no jobs except fish and game, oh pipe line. The governor has no imagination for the creation of employment for it's youth. Perry, Ike-Texas is still an issue and Sanford, South Carolina, can use new paving of roads and bridges.

These people want to run for President, It would be nice if they did, what joy. Everyone of them is self centered. They don't care about the citizens in their own states let alone this country. I say, let them run.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Elizabeth — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:28:42 GMT

Correction to "Flashback time" -- Clinton wasn't jumping all over the largely-true comment that Goolsbee made to a trade rep in Chicago ---- what was REPORTED at the time was that someone on Obama's central campaign staff had contacted the Canadian Ambassador in DC and said that he should ignore all of Obama's talk about NAFTA, that it was just something being said for the campaign. THAT was the story, reported on Canadian TV, that got everyone upset and that, of course, was bought hook, line and sinker by Clinton and other opponents. It took a week or two for the actual facts to come out: Chicago not DC, trade rep not Ambassador, off-the-record conversation with unpaid consultant not specific messsage from central Obama staff member, rather vauge statement consistent with public statements by Obama not "he's lying". In other words, a VERY different situation from what is portrayed in this write-up today.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Anita, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:34:22 GMT

From Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, and Domenico Montanaro
*** Nowhere to go but up: One thing was absolutely clear about the home-foreclosure plan President Obama unveiled yesterday: It was received MUCH better than Geithner’s rollout of Phase II of the bank rescue plan. Of course, that probably says more about the banking plan than the home foreclosure one; there was nowhere to go but up, right? Still, GOP criticism over the foreclosure package was pretty tepid. House Minority Whip Eric Cantor released six questions about the plan. And House Minority Leader John Boehner issued a statement 1) asking why the government should reward Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and 2) wondering if taxpayers will be forced to subsidize ACORN. Seriously, when the GOP starts trotting out ACORN talking points, you know they don’t have much to complain about. But, after reading between the lines, there is a common thread linking the foreclosure and banking plans: The Obama administration was very careful about what it didn’t say -- namely, that not every homeowner and bank is going to be saved. There are going to be a lot of folks allowed to go under, as well as a lot of banks that fail the stress test. The question is how the administration can prove what's happening (when it happens later this spring and summer) is not as bad as if nothing was done. Will the markets react that way as well?

John Boehner ( smiling Bob)asked about Fannie and Freddie and rewarding them? Why didn't his administration have better oversight of the entire banking system (I can't wait to see who goes to jail lolololo). Any company is only as good as the leadership of mamagement allows it to be (GM needs a new CEO, hell I might apply for his job).

The banks need to shake lose the money that they have from the Bush-Poulson bailout, hell get it out of the off shore banks (lololol very soon...). Poulson left no paper trail for the distribution of the assets, Gaithner has had to figure it out, he does know where the bodies are buried. Say MSNBC why not report that? Maek my words, the American public is going to be in for a huge surprise......very, very, soon.

Eric Cantor (boy wonder), has a direct tie to the money trail of "bailout 08", so what's up with him and wifey?

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Jean, Asheville, NC — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:53:00 GMT

States turning down federal money from this pork saturated "stimulus" bill should be commended! This money is nothing but a reward to states that could not keep there fiscal house in order. The money being used to reward incompetence is being stolen from our children and grand-children. The states with financial problems will turn themselves around a lot faster without the federal money.

Good for these Republican governors. That's known as "Walking the walk.".
----------------------------------------------------
Hey Cary, N. C - I live in Asheville N.C. and about a month ago I had to take a 1/3 pay cut because my boss lost $200,000 last year and he is trying to keep his doors open. So if you don't want any of this stimulus package you can send it to me in Asheville. Tell me how would tax cuts help my boss or myself. We will not make enough money to have to worry about paying taxes at the end of the year. What we need is for people to HAVE JOBS so they can buy our product. Also - if people will just understand - the tax cuts Bush gave the upper 1% of our population - the wealthy - cost the rest of us over 1 trillion dollars. How come you don't hear the Republicans talk about that cost???? At least if someone is working, they are paying taxes and when they have money to spend they are paying sales tax which helps the state, etc. When you just get a tax break, there is only money going one way - out!! There is nothing in this stimuls bill which doesn't stimulate the economy and if you think that extending the unemployment insurance and medical insurance is waste, then shame on you. It's called "helping those less fortunate than you. Also, if they have some money in their pocket, then they can spend it on food, etc. thereby keeping people in grocery stores working, etc. See that is how it works. A Dollar spent is a Dollar earned = tax revenue which goes back to the state and govt.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Anita, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:53:41 GMT

Ted, if Obama can be black by choice then what is wrong with White by Choice? Obama is half white and half black, yet he chooses to capitalize on only being black. WTF?
Racism kept alive by Obama (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 10:29 AM)

Hell boy, you need to know your history. Who do you think decided that if a child is conceived by "either black female or male genes anywhere", your ass is condsidered to be black. I haved lived with this issue my entire life,. Not that I am not proud to be considered black, but it is "Jim Crow" law, that is still alive and well in the "New America". I hope that you young people that are "mutts" address this, my son uses unknow when he has to check off ethinicity and no, his father was not white,we had a double dose in our family that is very, very, strong me, my siblings, our children and their children face this. So watch your mouth, speak only what you "know" about this suject.

It is generational and it doesn't matter what you attempt to correct by not continuing to mix, you will have a child or children born with blonde hair and blue eyes and the cycle continues. That is why I don't see color, I see people, hell...I have no choice and I really don't mind... that part of it.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

olivia D, Santa Barbara, CA — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:58:23 GMT

<<The Obama administration was very careful about what it didn’t say -- namely, that not every homeowner and bank is going to be saved.>>

C'mon Chuck. That was just about the first thing Obama said!!! This is sloppy reporting. I don't think this is a good fit for you. You've become churlish, asking gotcha questions, and seem to have a chip on your shoulder much of the time.

You were always my favorite analyst and I'm very disappointed. At least be accurate.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Richard, Washington State — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:08:44 GMT

Prediction:

If the $75 billion is spent, the effect will be negligible at best and virtually untrackable. Pigs of all political stripes will be at this trough.

This is all just one huge bad idea on top of a bad situation. It's like treating a torn knee ligament with pain killers and a brace for two years before finally having surgery.

The surgery is painful and the recovery difficult and rehab even moreso, but at least the knee is repaired.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Anita, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:28:34 GMT

*** Just askin’: So how much is the housing plan going to cost? $75 billion or $275 billion? The White House insists that the cost is $75 billion, saying the $200 billion being used to stabilize and recapitalize Fannie and Freddie shouldn't be counted because not all the money is necessarily being spent. (Speaking yesterday to First Read, White House economic adviser Austan Goolsbee compared it to the FDIC. If you raised the money that the government insures bank loans from $100,000 to $200,000, he said, that doesn't mean the federal government is spending new money. It's just backing up that amount.) That said, Fannie/Freddie could not offer the lower interest rates to refinance without the capital safety net, and it's pretty clear this plan will never cost $75 billion. So isn't it more correct that without $275 billion in total money, this housing plan couldn't be implemented? Discuss.

Sweetie, it is called debits and credits. Lets see...(never was a good teacher, that's why I refused to teach). No, insurance, back, cover, got it? Banks have FDIC, do they have 250,000 on had for every client in their bank from the feds? No, it is insurance for the client that is blacked by the feds. Same concept.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Ted, Mid Michigan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:37:44 GMT

White By Choice (Sent Wednesday, February 18, 2009 1:34 PM)

------------------------------------------------------
What kind of a "name" is that anyway? WTF? Please explain!
Ted, Mid Michigan (Sent Wednesday, February 18, 2009 2:42 PM)

====================================================
Ted, if Obama can be black by choice then what is wrong with White by Choice? Obama is half white and half black, yet he chooses to capitalize on only being black. WTF?
Racism kept alive by Obama (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 10:29

------------------------------------------------------
It's people like YOU who keep racism alive. How did Obama Capitalize on being "Black?" Everyone knew, including you, from the beginning, that his mother was white, and that he was raised by his mother's parents. Obama never brought up race, except the time he was forced to. I believe he did a wonderful job at being a "candidate" and not a "black/mixed/whatever candidate." A candidate for the people.

In my experiences, as a multi-racial American; to those who are racist, discriminating, and demeaning towards other races, it doesn't matter about the part of you that is "white", because the part of you that is black makes you "just another n#$%#r." Actually, I think people like Obama and myself may even have it a bit worse, than those who are fully AA, because many people take great resentment to our parents who crossed color lines to conceive us.

Thankfully I have seen in my short 30 years on this Earth, great improvement in these areas. Where I was called AWFUL names OFTEN in my early years, this has tapered off, becoming completely non-existent (To me at least) over the last 10-15 years. Very rarely will I hear the types of things I did as a child (I wonder if it’s 'cause I can now immediately defend myself?), but occasionally I do see a few holdouts. But mostly I see racism rear its ugly head HERE, with people like you, who, like the cowards you are, hide behind hurtful monikers and post anonymously. It’s easy to be an overt racist when no one knows who you are.

But, at the end of the day, I KNOW progress is being made. My daughter now lives in a world where she doesn’t even know what “those” words are, what they mean, or what damages they can cause. She does not even recognize color differences, never asked a question about them. But if she does ask why are people’s skin different colors, no jo, no bo (who I strongly disagree with politically) gave me a GREAT line: “The same reason people have different color hair and eyes” I’ll probably add “God loves colorful variety in all his creation. I really love that line "No", or whatever I should call you. Thanks again!

But for you “Racism kept alive by Obama” I hope this gives you a little perspective. And, I’ll be praying for ya!

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

James Raider — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:43:56 GMT

Are you responsible for your neighbor’s bad decisions?

http://pacificgatepost.blogspot.com/2009/02/obama-mitigating-mortgage-foreclosures.html

Obama and Congress appear to think so. Is there any common sense in this program?

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Ted, Mid Michigan — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:45:57 GMT

Ed, Coppell (Sent Thursday, February 19, 2009 10:54 AM)

------------------------------------------------------
Please pay attention, and understand the plans, BEFORE you critisize them.

8000.00 per home is more than enough to pay for refi costs, and point buy downs. The government isn't buying these people's houses, just helping them refi into more managable payments. 8000.00 should be more than enough to accomplish this for most homeowners.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

karen east northport ny — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:47:21 GMT

Chucky:
Maybe you should get out in the real world and see waht is really going on and when you start showing the protest that are going on when Obama makes his campaign speeches every week. You guys don't get it and will never be honest with the American People because you have your own agenda and don't care about the truth. There is a backlash coming and eventually you will have to report it.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

schriendog, colorado springs — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 19:14:11 GMT

"Unregulated capitalism gives us the world of Dickensian England and Malaysian sweat shops. Properly regulated capitalism gives a strong economy and strong nation."

----

Watching Frontline about the Wall Street meltdown brought this nugget from Alan Greenspan, paraphrased: "My hope was that CEOs , boards of directors, and shareholders would step in and do the right thing. That they didn't was not part of the model." Yes -- the greedheads chasing money bought up these mortgage bundles and exotics without any sense of what they were doing. They saw only huge returns with no risk. Couple that with Hank Paulson's miscalculation in letting Lehmann Brothers crash -- he didn't foresee how interconnected the firm was on Wall Street -- and the recipe for disaster was at full-boil.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

schriendog, colorado springs — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 19:20:54 GMT

"There is a backlash coming and eventually you will have to report it."

--- Hey, just the way Rush dictated it.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Raymond Hernandez. San Antonio, Texas — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 19:37:19 GMT

Conservative States (like Texas) should take the money available from the stimulus, letting the liberal states like California and Michigan have it all will only be a waste.
After liberals spend what ever they get from the stimulus package they will be back in line for more handouts, not so for conservative states.

First thoughts: Nowhere to go but up

Thanks for the Prayers — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 19:37:27 GMT

How did Obama Capitalize on being "Black?" Everyone knew, including you, from the beginning, that his mother was white, and that he was raised by his mother's parents. Obama never brought up race, except the time he was forced to. I believe he did a wonderful job at being a "candidate" and not a "black/mixed/whatever candidate." A candidate for the people.
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Wow. Must have hit a nerve with your long tirade. I disagree that EVERYONE knew he was half white. Several AA people I talked to during the election were voting for him just because he was black. And when I asked them, they had no idea that he was half white. And I disagree that he was "just a candidate." Look at the thousands of headlines that said "First African-American President!" "History in the Making - First African American"